If you had to choose between soda or water, what would you decide? Fruit or candy? Many would believe most sixth graders faced with those decisions would choose without worrying about the health impacts. Middle school students in Chowan, Perquimans, Washington and Tyrrell counties, however, do understand how eating plays a vital role in their overall health, thanks in part to Chowan Hospital Diabetes Prevention Educator, Lois Byrum.

Byrum, a registered nurse, visits area middle schools to educate students on type 2 diabetes and how it can be prevented. Each student goes through a two-week program titled “Type 2, We’re on to You” that includes hands on lessons regarding proper diet and exercise, and what adequate portion sizes are. Byrum gives special attention to nutrition facts and labels, including educating students on serving sizes, calories and sugar amounts, allowing them to make smart nutrition choices.

“I really enjoy teaching the class,” said Byrum, who educates nearly 500 students in five schools throughout the area during the course of a year. “It is good for children to learn about diabetes and how their nutrition habits play a role in their health so they can possibly avoid type 2 diabetes.”

Byrum says the program is rewarding, especially when she sees that it does make an impact on her 11 and 12-year-old pupils. Students know her as the “diabetes lady” who is available to help and answer questions that they have. She even had one student give up soda pop completely after taking her class. She said that particular student was concerned about the large amounts of sugar that is in sodas. She was very proud that he gave up soda and hopes others will do the same, or at least cut back on their soda intake.

“At the sixth grade level children are judged pretty hard by one another,” she said. “I have several students who are concerned about their weight. I do my best to talk with

them and provide them with the education they need to make smart choices.”

The program began in 2004 with the help of the Kate B. Reynolds Charitable Trust

The American Diabetes Association says that type 2 is the most common form of diabetes. Millions of Americans have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, and many more are unaware they are at high risk. Obesity is a strong risk factor for type 2 diabetes for young people and for those who have been obese for a long time.